When the weather warms up, there’s no better place to be than by the water, soaking in the sun and listening to the gentle crash of waves. While the United States is known for its vast cities and sprawling farmlands, it also boasts some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. From New England’s rugged coastlines to Hawaii’s tropical paradises, the US offers a diverse range of coastal getaways perfect for every type of traveler.
Whether you’re seeking a secluded spot for a romantic escape or a lively boardwalk for a fun family outing, there’s something for everyone. Get ready to pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and explore the 26 most beautiful beaches in the US.
Why Visit US Beaches?
The United States is home to a wide variety of beach environments, each offering its own unique charm. Whether you’re drawn to the tropical vibes of the Gulf Coast, the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest, or the laid-back atmosphere of the East Coast, there’s a beach that will capture your heart. These coastal destinations are easily accessible and perfect for both quick weekend getaways and extended vacations. Plus, with year-round destinations available, you can enjoy beach bliss no matter the season.
1. Coronado Beach, San Diego, California
Coronado Beach is a top destination in Southern California, known for its soft sand, gentle surf, and Mediterranean-like climate that makes it a year-round favorite. After a day of water sports and searching for the beach’s hidden sunken ship at low tide, be sure to visit the Dog Beach at the north end of the island, where your pup can run freely off-leash.
2. Bowman’s Beach, Sanibel Island, Florida
Sanibel Island, just a short drive from Southwest Florida’s mainland, is famous for its biking trails, abundant wildlife, and calm Gulf Coast waters. Bowman’s Beach is particularly known for the sheer number of seashells scattered along its 15 miles of coastline. Pack a picnic, some refreshments, and a bucket to collect the pastel-colored treasures along the shore.
Hawaii boasts some of the world’s most stunning beaches, and Hanalei Bay on Kauai should be at the top of your list. This two-mile crescent-shaped bay offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains—Hihimanu, Namolokama, and Mamalahoa. The winter season brings larger waves ideal for surfers, while the calmer summer waters are perfect for sailing, paddleboarding, and swimming
4. Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina
With 301 miles of coastline, North Carolina has no shortage of beautiful beaches, but Wrightsville Beach stands out for its accessibility and range of activities. Located just off I-40, Wrightsville Beach is one of the best beaches near Raleigh. This beach is perfect for kayaking, surfing, biking, and golfing. It’s also an ideal spot for families, with plenty of nearby bars and restaurants for a quick break from the sun.
5. Ocean City Beach, Maryland
Ocean City Beach offers a pristine 10-mile stretch of sand, perfect for floating in the waves or trying out water sports like kayaking or surfing. The boardwalk, a staple since 1902, comes alive in the evening with restaurants, ice cream shops, souvenir stores, mini-golf courses, and arcades, all crowned by a classic Ferris wheel.
6. Blue Beach (La Chiva), Vieques, Puerto Rico
La Chiva Beach on Vieques Island is one of the Caribbean’s top beaches, with its long stretch of white sand and crystal-clear water. The journey to the beach is part of the adventure, requiring navigation through a bumpy, unpaved road in the island’s western National Wildlife Refuge. Once there, you can snorkel around a small cay on your own or book a guided tour to explore secret underwater spots.
7. South Beach, Miami
South Beach in Miami is famous for its white sand, beautiful people, and vibrant nightlife. Spanning over 15 city blocks, the beach is large enough to find a quiet spot despite the crowds. Stay close to the locals in the South of Fifth (SoFi) area, and don’t miss the chance to swim in the warm turquoise waters, which remain inviting even in winter.
8. Henderson Beach State Park, Destin, Florida
The Florida panhandle is famous for its scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico, and Henderson Beach State Park is no exception. The park’s white sand and serene waves create a picturesque setting on the Emerald Coast. In addition to enjoying the beach, visitors can explore walking trails that offer a glimpse into Florida’s unique ecosystems and ongoing conservation efforts.
9. Gulf Shores Public Beach, Alabama
Gulf Shores is an iconic American beach with its white sand and clear blue-green water. It’s a haven for surfers and boogie boarders, with calm, wind-free waters perfect for riding the waves. Along the coastline, you’ll find volleyball nets, showers, souvenir shops, and picnic pavilions, making it a great spot for a beach day with friends and family.
10. Twelvemile Beach, Michigan
Twelvemile Beach in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore along Lake Superior’s southern shore is one of the most beautiful natural sites in the US. Known more for its dramatic limestone cliffs than its sandy shores, this 12-mile-long stretch is a popular camping spot, offering stunning water views and ample space to set up a tent for the night.
11. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, California
The Big Sur coastline is a must-see, and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park stands out as the most picturesque spot. Located about 35 miles south of Carmel, Pfeiffer Beach offers dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, lush greenery, and even the occasional dolphin or otter sighting in the shallow waters.
12. Waikiki Beach, Oahu
Waikiki Beach in Oahu is not only Hawaii’s most famous beach but also one of the most renowned city beaches in the world. Despite the crowds, the beach retains a laid-back vibe with its gentle waves, luxurious oceanfront resorts, and surf lessons offered by local beach boys. The stunning views of Diamond Head crater add to the allure.
13. Driftwood Beach, Jekyll Island, Georgia
Jekyll Island, one of Georgia’s Golden Isles, is home to the otherworldly Driftwood Beach. As its name suggests, the beach is dotted with twisted, weathered trees that make for excellent photo backdrops. Be sure to visit during low tide for the best experience.
14. Kiawah Island, South Carolina
Kiawah Island, a mostly private, gated community just an hour from Charleston International Airport, is a beach lover’s dream. East Beach and West Beach together stretch for 10 miles along the Atlantic, with public access available at Beachwalker County Park. The beach is flat, the water shallow, and lifeguards are on duty.
15. Coligny Beach, Hilton Head, South Carolina
Coligny Beach is a five-mile stretch of perfect Atlantic coastline on Hilton Head Island. Accessible via a boardwalk at the end of Pope Avenue, the beach offers soft sand and calm waters ideal for swimming. With amenities like sand showers, shops, restaurants, lifeguards, and well-maintained restrooms, it’s a top choice for families.
16. Honokalani Beach, Maui
Honokalani Beach is one of Maui’s most photogenic spots, with its striking black sand made up of tiny lava pebbles. The contrast between the dark sand, bright blue ocean, and lush green foliage is stunning. You can also explore seaside lava tubes and sea caves along the shoreline.
17. Coast Guard Beach, Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Coast Guard Beach in Cape Cod is not for the faint of heart, with its coarse sand and chilly summer water temperatures of 60-70 degrees. Despite the cool waters, the views of the Nauset Spit barrier system and bay keep travelers coming back.
18. Cannon Beach, Oregon
Cannon Beach is arguably the most beautiful place in Oregon and one of the most stunning in the entire US. This boulder-studded beach is a must-stop along Highway 101, and the sight of the 235-foot Haystack Rock emerging from the water is worth the trip alone.
19. Caladesi Island State Park, Dunedin, Florida
Caladesi Island State Park is a pristine piece of Gulf Coast paradise, accessible only by boat or ferry. The island offers an untouched experience, with white-sand beaches, kayaking through mangroves, and hiking trails hidden in the dunes.
20. Mustang Island State Park, Texas
Mustang Island State Park on the Gulf Coast of Texas offers a pristine and clean stretch of land with plenty of activities. Visitors can hike or cycle along the trails, explore tide pools, surf the big waves, or simply relax on the white-sand beach.
21. Singing Beach, Massachusetts
Singing Beach in Massachusetts offers a unique experience where the sand emits a song-like squeak when walked upon. This auditory novelty is just the beginning, as the beach also provides stunning sunrise views and picturesque rocky coastlines.
22. Ruby Beach, Washington
Ruby Beach in Olympic National Park is known for its rock formations and sun-bleached driftwood, perfectly capturing the moody beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Driving along Highway 101 on the Olympic Peninsula offers numerous coastal viewpoints, with Ruby Beach being a highlight worth the stop.
23. Cape May, New Jersey
Cape May, located at the southern tip of New Jersey, is a charming town known for its historic Victorian district and intricate, candy-colored homes. The town offers some of the best birdwatching and whale watching in the country, making it a unique destination for nature lovers.
24. Siasconset Beach, Nantucket
Siasconset Beach on the east end of Nantucket is one of the island’s calmer and less-crowded spots. A six-mile bike ride or summer shuttle bus ride from town will take you to this serene beach, famous for its picture-perfect Sankaty Head Light.
25. Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach, where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, is a year-round destination with no defined “beach season.” Wildlife enthusiasts will find plenty of excursions to enjoy, including whale watching, fishing, and visiting the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center.
26. Sand Beach, Acadia National Park, Maine
Sand Beach in Acadia National Park may be small at just 290 yards long, but it more than makes up for it with its stunning beauty. Nestled between two mountains, the beach is the perfect spot to explore after breakfast in nearby Bar Harbor.
Conclusion
No matter what kind of beach experience you’re seeking, the United States offers an incredible variety of coastal destinations that promise unforgettable memories. Whether you’re after serene, secluded shores or bustling beachside boardwalks, each of these 26 stunning beaches has something special to offer. So, pack your sunscreen, grab your beach towel, and get ready to discover the beauty and diversity of America’s coastlines this summer.
